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Sunday, May 11, 2014

Baltimore Oriole

 
So many quality things are happening, it's hard to decide what to share. Loretta gave me a gift certificate for plants as a present, and the weather was gorgeous today, so I gardened. But those pictures can wait.

I want to share with you the great show given us by the Baltimore Oriole, Icterus galbula. They come through almost every spring, sing for me and move on. They were in Loretta's yard last night because she has a hummingbird feeder, which orioles love. (Not to mention oranges and grape jelly!) These are the best pictures I've ever gotten. And you get a story, too.

Om and I pulled into Loretta's driveway and Mrs. O poked her head out of the lattice that covers the space under the deck. Seemed like an odd place for an oriole to hang out, to me.

Baltimore Oriole

She moved to a planter, and WOW, Mr. O appeared.

Baltimore Oriole

Now, don't go thinking they might build a nest under there. That's not their style at all. They hang a basket from a branch- that and their color give them the nickname "Fire Hangbird."

Back to the story. Pretty soon the female went to the railing. Can't believe bird feet can get much purchase on that pipe!

Baltimore Oriole

The male followed, again, but he liked a post better.

Baltimore Oriole
He spent some time having a treat at the feeder, and then they flew off to the trees. Loretta says they were still there this morning. It would be awesome if they built a nest near her.

This isn't a great picture, but I like it because of the motion. So you get one more.

Baltimore Oriole

P.S. still in fine print. The antibiotics are working, but things are not right yet. Hike plans with a tentative green light, but it's got to be better. Can't hike like this. Food is not my friend. Managed to eat about 1/2 c. white potato, 1/4 c. applesauce, 1/4 c. sweet potato, 2 strawberries, and 4 small bites of lemon cake all day.

See Northern Oriole- A Lucky Shot
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7 comments:

Anonymous said...

Wow! You got some awesome photos while waiting for me to get back home! How fun for you that tney came out to see who was visiting their yard. They were still here today so it seems like they may be hanging around. Guess I should get them some oranges??

Ann said...

You got some nice shots of them and I like the in flight picture.

rose AKA Walk in the Woods - she/her said...

Such beautiful birds! I see them for a short window of time as they migrate through my realm every spring and autumn. I haven's seen them yet, but my neighbor said she saw one in the past week. Gotta keep my eyes open!

As always, thanks for the sharing the natural beauty of your world!

Secondary Roads said...

I don't see the Os here very often. In fact, for me, it's a rare day that I have a sighting here at our place.

I particularly like that final image. It does capture the bird in motion.

Praying for your rapid recovery.

Unknown said...

Wish you better very soon, Joan. Thanks for soldiering on with your posts come what may. Love these little birds.

Unknown said...

Wow ... these pictures are absolutely amazing Joan. I just love birds the are totally magical and when you watch them you can get lost in their world for hours at a time. Thank you for sharing these photos - you certainly have an eye for a magical shot! x

Lin said...

WOW! I don't usually get them in our yard, but if you go to the forest preserves here, you can spot them. Such lovely color!!

I hope you are feeling better soon.